Matsuyama's Win Prompts Outpouring of Pride and Joy

Tokyo, Japan: Transcending golf, Hideki Matsuyama's historic victory in the 85th edition of the Masters Tournament has provided a timely morale-booster in Japan and around the region.

The Professional Golfers’ Association of Japan (PGAJ), the Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO), the Japan Golf Association (JGA) and the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) led the chorus of approval after Matsuyama became the first Japanese winner of the Masters Tournament and the country’s first male Major champion.

There was an outpouring of joy, emotion and pride as a nation let its hair down in recognition of one of the greatest sporting feats ever achieved by a Japanese citizen.

Catching the mood was Isao Aoki, Chairman of the JGTO. “This is the moment that golf fans and people from all over Japan have been waiting for,” said Aoki, referencing the way in which Matsuyama has now twice lifted the spirits of the nation, the first occasion coming in 2011 when he won the low amateur award on his first appearance at Augusta National.

Aoki said: “Just before Matsuyama went to America for the Masters in 2011, we were struck by an earthquake and many Japanese people were seriously injured. In brilliantly shining as the low amateur, he gave great courage to those who were affected.

“This time, we’re in the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic with various restrictions imposed in Japan to stop the spread of the virus. By winning the Masters at a time where so many people are sad and depressed, Matsuyama has again given us hope. The sincere gratitude and blessing of the people of Japan are with Matsuyama.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Masahiro ‘Massy’ Kuramoto, Chairman of the PGA of Japan.

Founded in 1957, the PGA of Japan is one of Asia’s eldest and most respected sporting organisations. Among its more than 5,000 qualified golf professionals who are registered as members and are active in all areas of golf in Japan is none other than Matsuyama.

Kuramoto said: “Great news is hard to come by these days, so Matsuyama’s historic victory has filled our hearts with pride and happiness, and will remain with us as a golden moment during a very difficult time.

“I am in total awe of this achievement and am proud that it was accomplished by our PGA of Japan member. Furthermore, the image of him wearing the green jacket will be a stimulant for all Asian professionals, young aspiring golfers and a boost for many to take interest in the game of golf."

Andy Yamanaka, Executive Director at the JGA, said: “Hideki’s win is huge news and has had a positive impact in Japan, not only in the golfing world.

“The JGA is proud of the fact that Hideki graduated from the Japan national team and represented our country so well in amateur tournaments before he turned pro.”

Taimur Hassan Amin, Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, who was non-playing captain of the Asia-Pacific amateur team in which Matsuyama competed against Europe in the 2012 Bonallack Trophy in Portugal, said: “Huge congratulations to Hideki. He is a wonderful young man and a great golfer.

“His victory at Augusta is not only a great day for Matsuyama, but also a great day for golf in Japan and across Asia. To see our two-time Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship winner create this history will inspire a new generation of golfers from around the region.”